Discover what happens when audio nerds design a hangout spot.
Tucked away in Brooklyn’s Gowanus neighborhood, Public Records is a special place for audiophiles and foodies alike. Since its establishment in 2017, this venue has rapidly become a cultural hub, offering a unique experience for the guests’ ears, eyes, and taste buds.
So, if you’re visiting NYC soon, this spot should be on your radar. But if not, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with other audiophile bars to check out all around the US, too!
What Is Public Records?
Public Records, located in the historic ASPCA building, is more than just a bar. It’s a multifaceted space that brings together diverse talents – from musicians and producers to architects and mixologists.
This creates a community working together to push the limits of sound, design, hospitality, and environmental consciousness.
The venue has five distinct areas, each with its own character:
- The Atrium: A vegan restaurant and music lounge. Here, people can enjoy plant-based dishes while listening to carefully curated soundscapes.
- Cafe Public: An all-day café and record store for music and coffee lovers. Visitors can browse through a selection of vinyl while sipping on their favorite brew, all in a relaxed atmosphere.
- UPSTAIRS: This intimate listening lounge and cocktail bar is made to house luxurious events. It features a striking contrast of black and white marble complemented by glossy finishes and bespoke furniture. There are also round glass tables, cream leather banquettes for comfortable seating. Plus, the unique black ceramic and foam stools, commissioned by a Zurich-based artist, add an exclusive touch.
- The Nursery: An outdoor area that’s both a plant nursery and an event space. It brings a breath of fresh air, literally and figuratively, by bringing nature into the urban setting.
- The Sound Room: The crown jewel of Public Records, made just for listening to music.
The Sound Room
The Sound Room is the most important part of Public Records, if you’re an audiophile. It’s all about enjoying music in the best way possible.
Co-founder Shane Davis created the room with a DIY approach. Yet, he got help with the design from StudioKos and acoustics by Arup.
But what sets The Sound Room apart is its meticulous attention to acoustic detail.
The Sound Room focuses on sound quality with this expensive equipment for what Francis Harris (another founder) calls “listening on purpose.” He thinks this helps people understand and value music more.
The walls are perforated to optimize sound quality, creating an immersive listening environment. And, there are oversized subwoofer speakers by Devon Turnbull of OJAS, placed on the back wall to enhance the sound.
Aside from that, the state-of-the-art sound system also includes custom-built OJAS speakers, tube amplifiers, Altec horns, and custom Isonoe mixers. All of this makes sure that every note sounds clear and rich to satisfy audiophile’s discerning ears.
The Sound Room regularly hosts live performances and DJ sets, attracting musicians, producers, and audiophiles who value its exceptional sound quality. This space shows Public Records’ commitment to a venue where music is experienced in its purest form.
Other Notable Audiophile Bars in the U.S.
Public Records is part of a trend of venues offering high-quality sound with curated food and drinks.
Here are some of our favorites:
Dante’s HiFi
Dante’s HiFi in Miami’s Wynwood district is the area’s first vinyl listening bar for analog audiophile music. Co-owner Sven Vogtland created the bar after being inspired by Japanese listening bars on a trip to Tokyo.
The venue boasts an extensive vinyl collection curated by DJ and music historian Rich Medina. With a state-of-the-art sound system, Dante’s HiFi ensures each record is played with the clarity and richness audiophiles crave. The bar also offers a classy but relaxed vibe, centered on delivering a true high-fidelity experience.
Eavesdrop
Eavesdrop in Brooklyn is a venue designed for serious listeners seeking high-quality sound and an intimate atmosphere. It combines a modern aesthetic with the cozy feel of a traditional Japanese listening bar. Guests can also enjoy a New York-style Japanese-fusion menu alongside craft cocktails.
Eavesdrop emphasizes listening over dancing. Its sound system features Danley SH60 speakers, Seaton Submersive S2 subs, and Bryston SST amplifiers. On Wednesdays, the bar plays records from local stores like The Mixtape Club and Brooklyn Record Exchange, while DJs curate music the rest of the week.
Goldline
Goldline, a vinyl-only bar in Los Angeles’ Highland Park, is a favorite among music lovers. Founded by Chris Manak, aka Peanut Butter Wolf, it’s located beneath the Stones Throw Records office, where his extensive vinyl collection is kept. This collection is the heart of Goldline, with local DJs spinning records almost every night.
The bar’s standout sound system, featuring a McIntosh amplifier, Altec Lansing speakers, and a Bozak rotary mixer, was expertly assembled by Kevin Carney of Mohawk General Store. This setup delivers a warm, deep analog sound that attracts vinyl enthusiasts. Goldline’s minimalist design and focus on high-quality sound create a unique, authentic listening experience in Los Angeles.
Equipment Room
Equipment Room, hidden under Austin’s Hotel Magdalena, is a private retreat for music lovers. Inspired by Japanese Jazz Kissa culture with a Texas twist, this venue blends familiarity with uniqueness.
The space, designed for high-fidelity sound, has an extensive list of equipment. These include Klipsch speakers, McIntosh amplifiers, and a selection of mixers and turntables.
Guests can enjoy this top-notch audio in a cozy setting, with crafted cocktails and soft lighting, making it a perfect retreat for those who love great music and sound.